If you’re anything like me and love a good night out at the theatre, then you might want to take note of this one. Rock of Ages is coming to Sligo, and not just any production, it’s being brought to life by Pop-Up Theatre at the Hawk’s Well. The show runs from April 1st to 5th, so there are a few chances to catch it – but tickets are selling fast.
I don’t know about you, but the minute I hear 80s music, I’m already halfway there – nod to Bon Jovi! I’m back in my teenage bedroom, hairbrush in hand, belting out songs and scaring the neighbours. Think big hair, big songs, big energy, and probably a bit of singing along (whether the people beside you in the theatre like it or not 😉).
This is one of those shows where you’ll recognise the songs straight away, and it’s certainly one for fans of 80’s rock. We’re talking Don’t Stop Believin’, Here I Go Again, Wanted Dead or Alive – to name just a few. It’s the kind of music that transports you straight back (even if, like me, you might not admit how far back that is 😄). It’s fun, it’s a bit over the top, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is exactly what you want from a night out. Even the band members are going back to the 80s!
You know you are in for a treat, when you go and see a show by Pop-Up Theatre. They have been around since 2016 – happy birthday to them! They have an excellent track record in putting on incredible productions, and they have awards to prove it. You might have seen: Hairspray, Chicago, or The Producers. Not forgetting their immersive production of Sweeney Todd, which people are still talking about.
At the centre of it all is Karen Gordon. And I have to say, having seen her in a few productions myself – she is incredible. Not just as a performer (although she really is), but in the way she brings everything together. There’s a real energy to the shows she’s involved in, and you can feel it from the audience.
Karen founded Pop-Up Theatre back in 2016, and since then she has directed and produced large-scale shows, supported and encouraged local talent, and built something really special in Sligo. Her talent was recognised by Sligo County Council, when she won the Cathaoirleach’s Award for Arts, Culture and Literature. Photo above by Sligo County Council. You can read more about Karen – and the awards here.
I recently had a chat with Cathal, who plays Drew in the show, on the podcast. We talked about how he got into musical theatre, his wedding singing, and what people can expect from the show. He also told me about his favourite place in Sligo.
You can listen to it here:
https://shows.acast.com/magnumladys-podcast/episodes/interview-with-cathal-mulhern-pop-up-theatre
There’s something very special about live theatre, I saw Rock of Ages in Dublin, and it was amazing, so I’m really looking forward to seeing the Sligo version. Sligo has such a wealth of musical talent, and I have been known to go and see musicals in the Hawk’s Well Theatre on multiple nights of the run! One day I’d love to be up there with them – the only issue is that I can’t sing!
I always think we’re lucky in Sligo with what’s on offer, and this is another great one to add to the list. So, if you’re looking for something to do, whether it’s a night out with friends, a date night, or just an excuse to get out of the house – this might be the one. You are guaranteed to leave humming at least one song on the way home.
If the photos of the rehearsals are anything to go by, it’s going to be epic! See more photos and videos on the Facebook page. Tickets are selling fast – you have been warned. Book here: https://www.hawkswell.com/whats-on/shows/rock-of-ages
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